Let the SYC Races Begin…

The SYC Fall Racing season has begun!  We weren’t sure if this was going to happen this year but thanks to our Fleet Captain, Paul Rodrigue, it has!!  Thanks Paul.

Saturday, Sep 4 – Race 1

Three boats ventured out on Saturday, Sep 5 with SW 10-12 kts variable winds and blue skies. Perfect day for a sail!

Aragorn (Skipper John Becker and crew Francis Clark), Beethoven (Skipper Cory Petrie and crew Scott Smith & Jeff Ridal) and Sealestial (Skipper Paul Rodrigue and crew Manon Rodrigue, Kate Miller & Ann Marie Blinkhorn) gathered with the race committee (Nick Cox & Judy Pike) at around 9:30am to review the course, racing rules and, of course, to pose for a socially distanced group photo. Everyone was excited to get started!

The winds got us moving quickly over the start line and towards the first marker with Sealestial over the line first.  Sealestial was able to maintain her lead until she reached the south side of Sheek Island when the winds died.  Arargon came up the rear and overtook her.  Beethoven wasn’t far behind.  A broken whisker pole didn’t help Sealestial.  It was a great stretch to the finish line with Aragorn and Beethoven neck-n-neck.  A ‘picture perfect’ finish with Aragorn crossing first!

Sunday, Sep 6 – Race 2

The winds (W 6-10 kts variable) were much calmer on Sunday for the second race and the sky was still blue.  Sylvie Sabourin joined the crew of Aragorn and new member Maurice Poulin gave a helping hand to setup the markers and to assist the race committee.

The calmer winds kept us in the bay for this course.  Regardless, it was a great race.  Aragorn didn’t waste any time and took the lead right away.  She never looked back and made ‘toast’ of Beethoven and Sealestial.  

You can see the official race results on the SYC website under document archives – races.

Note from the Race Committee – RC was not impressed by how late boats crossed the start line, 30-90 seconds is too much. All boats need to improve on this next Sunday.

Lots of laughter and a delicious socially-distanced BBQ after the race. A super 2 days on the water.  We even got to welcome home Jenna’s Journey & Rosalita on Sunday.

The 3rd race is next Sunday, Sep 13. We’re hoping more boats can join us.  Anyone who wants to crew is welcome as well.  Please see Paul before 930am.  Skippers meeting is at 930am and the race starts at 1030am.  

Bring burgers & hot dogs for the post-race socially-distanced BBQ and de-brief. Please remember to bring all you need as the clubhouse is not open due to covid.

Written by Ann Marie Blinkhorn

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